Reflection Paper Instructions For This Assignment

Reflection Paper Instructions For this assignment, you should compose a 3-page double-spaced paper that addresses how the principles that you have learned throughout this course have changed your understanding of what it means to be a Christian. You will submit your first paper in Module/Week 4 and your second paper is Module/Week 8. You should follow the format of Praxis: Beyond Theory when completing your papers. The format is: 1. An explanation of the topic/doctrine 2. Scriptural basis for the doctrine 3. Practical application of the doctrine to the life of the student NOTE: Students should write on topics which are not specifically addressed in the Praxis: Beyond Theory text. As you respond to the prompt, reflect on the concepts that you have learned throughout the course, and apply them to your specific topic. Be sure to integrate the information that you learned through the textbook readings, the assigned article readings, the lecture videos, and any other related content that you may have encountered during the course. Your paper should also: 1. Describe the course concepts that are related to your topic, demonstrating your reflection and analysis. Do not simply summarize what was presented in class. 2. Demonstrate real ownership of the ideas that you present by providing unique insight as evidence of your careful consideration of the topic. 3. Provide a logical link between the description of the concepts from the course, and the conclusions or implications that you draw in your reflection. In other words, your conclusion should be logically derived from the application of the course concepts to the description of your topic. 4. Demonstrate learning initiative by exploring conclusions and implications beyond the boundaries of our classroom discussion. 5. Focus on depth of understanding, rather than breadth of coverage. Format your paper in a MS Word document using current APA, MLA, or Turabian style (whichever corresponds to your degree program). Review the Reflection Paper Grading Rubric to see the specific grading criteria by which you will be evaluated before submitting your paper. Structure your paper in the following format (inserting the headings within the paper): I. Introduction (one paragraph introducing the two topics/doctrines that you will address) II. Part One (first topic: approximately one page in length) a. Theological Definition b. Biblical Foundation c. Practical application III. Part Two (second topic: approximately one page in length) a. Theological Definition b. Biblical Foundation c. Practical Application IV. Conclusion (one paragraph summarizing your areas of progression in Christian thought) V. Grading Rubric (this must be copied and pasted into the end of your paper)

In this assignment, students are tasked with composing a comprehensive reflection paper that explores how the principles learned throughout their course have reshaped their understanding of what it means to be a Christian. The paper should be three pages long, double-spaced, and adhere to a structured format modeled after Praxis: Beyond Theory. This format includes an introduction, two main sections each addressing a separate doctrine or topic with theological definitions, biblical foundations, and practical applications, followed by a conclusion that summarizes the student’s progress in Christian thought. Students are encouraged to select topics not explicitly covered in the Praxis: Beyond Theory text, ensuring that their reflections incorporate insights from textbook readings, lectures, and additional course materials. The paper must demonstrate critical thinking by analyzing course concepts, offering personal insights, and establishing clear logical links between theory and personal application. Adherence to current APA, MLA, or Turabian style is required for formatting the document. Students should also copy and paste the grading rubric at the end of their submission to facilitate evaluation.

Paper For Above instruction

Becoming a Christian is a profound journey that involves understanding core doctrines of the faith and applying them in everyday life. Throughout this course, my understanding of what it means to be a Christian has significantly deepened, particularly in relation to the doctrines of grace and discipleship. These doctrines encapsulate essential aspects of Christian identity and practice, and exploring them has enriched my spiritual walk by illuminating the biblical foundations and practical implications of faith. This reflection addresses these two doctrines, examining their theological definitions, scriptural bases, and applications in my personal life, thereby illustrating my growth in Christian thought and practice.

I. Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to explore two foundational doctrines—grace and discipleship—that have influenced my understanding of Christian life. As I delve into each, I will define the doctrines theologically, illuminate their biblical foundations, and reflect on how they can be practically applied to daily living as a follower of Christ.

II. The Doctrine of Grace

A. Theological Definition

In Christian theology, grace is understood as unmerited favor bestowed by God upon humanity. It is the divine initiative to save sinners, providing them with mercy and forgiveness not because of their deserving efforts but because of God's sovereign love and mercy (Ephesians 2:8-9). Grace embodies the free and undeserved gift of salvation, transforming the believer from spiritual death to life (Titus 2:11).

B. Biblical Foundation

The biblical foundation of grace is rooted in numerous scriptures, with Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizing salvation through grace by faith, not works. Titus 2:11 proclaims that the grace of God has appeared bringing salvation for all people. The parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) vividly illustrates God's grace in forgiving and receiving repentant sinners. These scriptures reveal that grace is central to God's covenant relationship with humanity and underscores the idea that salvation is entirely a work of God's mercy.

C. Practical Application

Practically, embracing the doctrine of grace has transformed my approach to personal shortcomings and interpersonal relationships. Recognizing that I am saved by grace alone inspires humility and dependence on God's mercy rather than self-righteousness. It encourages me to extend grace to others, forgiving and showing mercy as God has shown me. Moreover, understanding grace fosters gratitude and motivates living a Spirit-led life marked by humility, compassion, and service (2 Corinthians 12:9).

III. The Doctrine of Discipleship

A. Theological Definition

Discipleship in Christianity entails committed following of Jesus Christ, embracing his teachings, and embodying his character in daily life. It involves intentional discipleship as modeled by the twelve apostles—learning from Christ, obeying his commandments, and growing in spiritual maturity (Matthew 28:19-20). Discipleship emphasizes union with Christ and active engagement in his mission.

B. Biblical Foundation

The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) encapsulates the call for believers to make disciples, positioning discipleship as central to Christian life. Jesus’ command to “take up your cross” (Luke 14:27) underscores the sacrificial commitment involved. The Apostle Paul’s letters frequently emphasize growth in faith and imitation of Christ (Philippians 3:12-14), providing biblical models for disciple-making and spiritual perseverance.

C. Practical Application

Practicing discipleship involves actively pursuing spiritual growth through prayer, Bible study, and community engagement. It challenges me to prioritize my relationship with Christ above worldly pursuits and to foster a lifestyle marked by obedience and service. Engaging in mentoring relationships and sharing my faith with others are practical expressions of discipleship. It also pushes me to live intentionally, reflecting Jesus’ love and truth in all interactions, thereby progressively growing into Christlikeness (Colossians 1:10).

IV. Conclusion

Reflecting on these doctrines has propelled my spiritual growth by clarifying the transformative power of God's grace and the active call to discipleship. I recognize that my understanding of being a Christian is rooted in both divine initiative and personal responsibility. As I continue to internalize and practice these truths, I am increasingly committed to modeling Christ’s love and obedience in my daily walk. This course has challenged me to move beyond mere knowledge to authentic application, deepening my identity as a follower of Christ.

V. References

  • Boice, M. (1996). The Doctrine of Grace. Baker Academic.
  • Cranfield, C. E. B. (1979). Studies in Paul’s Technique in his Letters. University of Cambridge Press.
  • Green, M. (2010). Discipleship: Christian Growth in Faith & Practice. InterVarsity Press.
  • MacArthur, J. (2009). Saved by Grace. Crossway.
  • Stott, J. R. W. (2006). The Cross of Christ. IVP Academic.
  • Wright, N. T. (2010). Surprised by Hope. HarperOne.
  • Yale, B. (2012). Understanding Discipleship. Zondervan.
  • Oden, T. C. (2007). Classic Christianity. Prophecy Media.
  • Morris, L. (1984). The Apostolic Preaching of the Cross. Eerdmans.
  • Von Balthasar, H. U. (1990). The Christian Imagination. Ignatius Press.

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